S2 EP9 - Raymond Rodriguez-Torres - Living Like Bella Through Faith, Service, and Hope

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of World of Wishes, we are honored to welcome Raymond Rodriguez Torres, wish dad, cancer research leader, and Co-Founder and Chairman of Live Like Bella—one of the most impactful pediatric cancer support organizations in the world. Raymond shares the story of his daughter Bella, a Make-A-Wish kid whose life was marked by extraordinary courage, faith, and joy in the face of overwhelming adversity. After early developmental challenges, Bella was diagnosed at just four years old with aggressive rhabdomyosarcoma, cancer that had spread throughout her body and left her suddenly paralyzed. Doctors told Raymond and his family that Bella would never walk again—and that her prognosis was only weeks to months. What followed defied every expectation. Bella fought for six years, regained the ability to walk, run, and jump, and lived with a joy and selflessness far beyond her years. Even as she endured surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation, Bella focused on helping others - especially the children she met along the way in the hospital. During her journey, Make-A-Wish granted Bella’s wish: a Disney Cruise, where moments of childlike wonder, compassion, and spiritual grace left an indelible impact on their family. From private character experiences to an unforgettable moment of Disney cast members praying together for Bella before her celebration, the wish became a source of joy, strength, and renewal during the darkest days of her battle. After Bella’s passing, the words “Live Like Bella” sparked a movement that would reach far beyond one family’s grief. Today, Live Like Bella (livelikebella.org) has funded more than $45 million in pediatric cancer research, supports families in 38 countries, provides direct treatment and financial assistance, and ensures dignity for families even in their most painful moments. This conversation is about legacy, faith, service, and the healing power of a wish. It is a reminder that some lives - no matter how short - can change the world forever. Learn more about how can get involved at https://wish.org/sfla Be sure to follow us @makeawishsfla on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn! Subscribe, Rate, & Review this podcast to support future episodes that will feature wish kids and parents' past and present, volunteers, donors, referral sources and everyone who contributes to this World of Wishes!